I still believe one of the best ways of earning online is through popular freelancing sites like Odesk, Guru, Elance, Freelancer, etc. The reason been most don't ask for payment in order to get jobs, you just sign up and bid for jobs you can do.

There are many ways to earn through online means. What is important is that you make use of the skills you have and continue to develop them. Competition is tough when working online. A lot of people nowadays have switched to working online. But if you have the skills others lack, many employers online won't hesitate to contact you.